Polar Rescue

There’s a dirty little secret that most Vectrex owners don’t like to talk about. The honest truth is, that while the Vectrex was a spectacularly original system, most of the games are middling at best. Polar Rescue stands out as a game that pushes the Vectrex to its limits, and is quite a lot of fun too. Or isn’t fun at all… It’s truly one of the most polarizing (couldn’t resist –sorry) games for the system. The game was one of the final released for the Vectrex, is fairly hard to find, and commands a price premium if you can locate a copy. Personally, I love this game.

The object is to take a submarine and rescue sailors trapped in another sub. While on your journey, you must avoid mines, enemy subs, and typhoons that whisk you away. It employs a stunning first person perspective, given the limitations of the system.

The game is tough, and it is very easy to accidentally accelerate into a mine. Critics of this game consider that a major drawback. But, Polar Rescue isn’t meant to be played fast and furiously like an arcade title. There are moments of arcade action when battling another sub, but there are also times when you need to employ a bit of finesse to achieve your goal. I like that the game features both elements.

If you have a Vectrex, I encourage you to pick up a copy. And, if you don’t have one, check out the emulated version. On second, thought, maybe you Vectrex owners should also check out the emulated one before buying it. I don’t want anyone out there blaming me for a bad purchase. Either way, I’d love to know what you think of this landmark game.